birch pollen allergen Bet v 1

**Birch pollen allergen Bet v 1** is the major allergenic protein of birch (Betula verrucosa) pollen, with a molecular weight of about 17 kDa and a member of the PR-10 (pathogenesis-related protein 10) family[1][3][5]. Bet v 1 is responsible for allergic sensitization in up to 95% of birch pollen-allergic patients, triggering type I hypersensitivity reactions mediated by IgE[1][2]. Its mechanism involves the binding of patient IgE antibodies and, upon inhalation, activation of a Th2 immune response leading to allergic rhinitis, asthma, and pollen-food syndrome (cross-reactivity with related food allergens such as apple, hazelnut, peach, cherry, and others)[1][2][3]. Bet v 1 folds into a structure with a hydrophobic cavity and surface-exposed epitopes that serve as IgE binding sites[1][3]. It acts as a lipocalin-like protein capable of binding iron via siderophores, and the immunomodulatory effect and allergenicity can depend on whether it is iron-loaded (holo-form) or iron-free (apo-form)[3]. Recombinant and purified Bet v 1, and its hypoallergenic variants, are used for specific allergen immunotherapy (AIT) in birch pollen allergy, including subcutaneous and sublingual routes[1][2][4][5]. Immunotherapy with Bet v 1 can induce IgG4 competing with IgE for allergen binding, thereby alleviating allergic symptoms[5]. Bet v 1’s main clinical use is in diagnosing birch sensitization and as an ingredient in allergen immunotherapy products[1][4][5].

Other names

Betula verrucosa pollen allergen 1Bet v 1 major allergen